And so we approach the end of the period we call ‘Lent’.

The number 40 is of special significance in the Jewish-Christian Scriptures: Genesis tells of a 40-day flood; the Hebrews spent 40 years wandering the wilderness before reaching the Promised Land; Moses fasted for 40 days before receiving the 10 Commandments; Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the wilderness in preparation for his ministry.

Lent is a 40 day period – not counting the Sundays. For some it may present a useful opportunity to give up habits that are life-draining rather than life-giving. Others take it as a time for reflection – a sort of ‘Spiritual Spring Clean’. True, we can do this at any time – much the same way as we might enjoy pancakes for twelve months of the year – but Lent provides us with a special opportunity to pause and prepare ourselves for whatever lies ahead in our own lives.

Speaking, albeit indirectly, of pancakes – this Lent our community at Conway Road have been doing something a little different. Yes, I’m talking about the sourdough! ‘Bob’, as he is now almost universally known, has been touring the groups that use this building, bubbling away in the upstairs kitchen, and providing occasion for much fun and laughter as well as some fascinating opportunities for conversation around the importance of ‘sharing bread’ in the life of the church and what it means to call Jesus ‘The Bread of Life’. I have honestly been blown away by the openness with which people have engaged with the project.

Which brings me to a very exciting piece of news:

The Methodist Church Media Office have got wind of the Sourdough Project want to create an article about it for circulation further afield – an article that will include photos / possibly a short video.

AND YOUR HELP IS NEEDED! If you are available on the afternoon / early evening of Thursday 10^th April, and don’t mind being in the background of material that will appear on social media please can you come along to the New Room to do things like:

            Be in the background drinking tea/coffee, eating bread and looking friendly

            Knead dough

            Measure out flour and water to feed Bob

You don’t need to stay for the whole time and will not be expected to speak to the camera – although let me know if you’d be happy to do so. We’ve gone for after school in the hope that many of our junior church will be able to attend (parents will need to sign consent forms) but it would be brilliant to have the place buzzing and to show Conway Road for what it is – a warm, friendly community that is committed to spreading the Good News in ways that are relevant to those we serve.

Love and blessings this Lent, this Easter, and always,

Laura